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Chardonnay Estate, Kumeu River 2018

RegionNew Zealand
Subregion New Zealand > Auckland
ColourWhite
TypeStill
Grape VarietyChardonnay

View all vintages of this wine | View all wines by Kumeu River

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Tasting Notes

As with all the wines from Kumeu River this year, volume is down for the Estate due to the difficult weather at flowering and before harvest. As a result, all the wines were fermented and matured in 100% old oak. Despite the lack of new oak, there is a spark of smoky intrigue from the classic reduction this wine can muster from wild yeasts and diligent use of the lees. This smokiness pairs nicely with cool citrus fruit and a touch of creaminess. The body is compact, with a bright core of citrus and white pear bolstered by a line of vibrant acidity. Taut and mineral, there is a little pithiness here that adds textural intrigue. Waves of acidity on the finish give real lift and freshness, adding to the lemony purity in the wine. Ready now, this will drink well over the next 5-7 years.

92+
Farr Vintners, Farr Tasting, September 2019

The 2018 Estate Chardonnay delivers typical toasty-mealy aromas, plus notes of tangerine, white peach and pineapple. Medium-bodied and silky in texture, it's a bit restrained at this stage of its evolution, but it should blossom within another six months or so, then drink well for up to a decade. Drink 2020-2030.

90
Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, November 2019

This has attractive fresh peaches and grilled pears with intensity and focus, as well as gently complex, spice and flinty nuances. The palate delivers so much supple and vibrant stone-fruit flavor. Drink now. Screw cap.

93
Nick Stock, JamesSuckling.com, October 2019
Please note that these tasting notes/scores are not intended to be exhaustive and in some cases they may not be the most recently published figures. However, we always do our best to add latest scores and reviews when these come to our attention. We advise customers who wish to purchase wines based simply on critical reviews to carry out further research into the latest reports.